<p>With an amazing movepool and a base Special Attack stat of 112, Cyclohm's role as an offensive threat in today's metagame is not dealt with easily. By using this set, not many OU Pokemon will be able to easily switch into Cyclohm without being hit hard. With Life Orb, Cyclohm further increases its offensive potential, and with its excellent overall bulk and recovery abilities, it won’t mind the 10% recoil Life Orb provides. Not only that, but Cyclohm's typing also gives this set much more of a boost, as there are numerous resistances to switch into and shrug off, while instantly giving your opponent a scare with Cyclohm’s fantastic dual STAB combo in Draco Meteor and Thunderbolt that no OU Pokemon (aside from Magnezone) is capable of resisting.</p>

<p>Hydro Pump’s high power and great type coverage makes it an excellent attack to use in tandem with Cyclohm’s STAB attacks, as it’s strong enough to 2HKO max HP Tyranitar, who would otherwise pose a threat due to its high Special Defense. Flamethrower deals more damage to Steel-types like Jirachi and Metagross than Thunderbolt would do, and it’s Cyclohm's most reliable option against Celebi. Although Hydro Pump is the preferred option in this set, both Flamethrower and Hydro Pump have their merits. Slack Off is used to give this set a longer lasting presence in the game, allowing it to constantly switch in, hit a few pokemon quite hard, and switch out. Cyclohm is essentially a hit-and-run type of Pokemon, which is why Draco Meteor is much preferred over Dragon Pulse.</p>

<p>Timid Cyclohm can outrun everything below 284 Speed, including Adamant Lucario, the standard Dragon Dance Kingdra, and Heatran. This also allows Cyclohm to speed tie with Mamoswine as well as other base 80 Speed Pokemon who would usually run max Speed.</p>

<p>When using Cyclohm, Pokemon that do exceptionally well in weakening foes and crippling the opponent will make its job much easier. Scizor, in particular, can switch into many of Cyclohm's counters such as Blissey and Latias who would hope to either kill or wall Cyclohm. Scizor can also scout and significantly weaken the opposing team with U-turn when paired with Stealth Rock. Likewise, Scizor can lure in Fire-type attacks coming from the likes of Heatran, allowing Cyclohm to take the hit and recover off the damage with Slack Off. Jirachi is also a good Pokemon to pair Cyclohm with, as it can paralyze foes with Body Slam or Thunder Wave while taking Ice- and Dragon-type attacks aimed at Cyclohm. Empoleon or Metagross can come in on Choice Salamence or Latias’ Dragon-type attacks fired at Cyclohm and set up a sweep with their popular Agility sets. Gyarados is immune to Ground-type attacks and can take out the special walls that normally impede Cyclohm through a combination of Waterfall, Dragon Dance, and Ice Fang. Close Combat + U-turn Infernape also does an excellent job of weakening or KOing Latias and Blissey while providing another offensive presence on your team. Like Empoleon and Metagross, Lucario can come in on Choiced Ice- or Dragon-type attacks, such as Scarf Latias' Dragon Pulse, and threaten a sweep with Swords Dance. It should be noted that most of these teammates share a Ground-type weakness with Cyclohm, so it's best to pack several Pokemon that resist or are immune to Ground-type moves.</p>

<p>With impressive HP and Defense, amazing typing, Slack Off, and Shield Dust, Cyclohm is more than capable of sponging hits from many of the game's top threats. Cyclohm can take several hits from Scizor, Metagross, Jirachi, and Gyarados, and retaliate with an attack launched from a high base 112 Special Attack. For example, Choice Band Scizor can only do 31.34% - 36.82% to Cyclohm with U-turn. Jirachi cannot rely on Zen Headbutt or Iron Head to flinch Cyclohm due to Cyclohm's ability, Shield Dust, which prevents any secondary effects such as Flamethrower's 10% burn chance or Iron Head's 30% flinch chance from activating. Unlike Zapdos, Cyclohm is not Stealth Rock weak and can therefore switch in more easily against Scizor, Metagross, and Jirachi. Cyclohm can normally switch in against Metagross with impunity; however, it must be careful when faced with Life Orb or Choice Band Metagross using Earthquake, as it will definitely be harmful. It should also be noted that although a Jolly Life Orb Lucario only has a 2% chance of OHKOing Cyclohm with a +2 Close Combat, Adamant versions will always OHKO. Besides that, Cyclohm is capable of always OHKOing Lucario with Flamethrower after it drops its defenses with Close Combat. It also makes a good switch-in against Infernape due to Cyclohm's high Defense and resistance to Grass Knot and Fire Blast, though Cyclohm must be wary of Hidden Power Ice.</p>

<p>Due to Cyclohm's great Special Attack, it can more easily handle the previously mentioned Pokemon without relying on set damage moves like Seismic Toss or Night Shade. Flamethrower allows Cyclohm to dispose of Scizor, Metagross, and Jirachi and is Cyclohm's strongest option against Celebi and Bronzong. Dragon Pulse is commonly used to hit switch-ins such as Tyranitar, Mamoswine, and Flygon for at least neutral damage, the latter being hit super effectivey. Discharge is the recommended Electric-type STAB option due to its 30% paralysis chance, which can be very helpful as it will help Cyclohm outpace more threats once they have been paralyzed. The power drop is largely insignificant due to the fact that Cyclohm is being used defensively, meaning it doesn’t need much offensive power.</p>

<p>With 108 SpA EVs, Cyclohm 2HKOes max HP Metagross 100% of the time with Flamethrower. Similarly, those Jirachi that do not invest heavily in HP are 2HKOed. 8 Spe EVs allow Cyclohm to outrun the standard ResTalk Gyarados who sit at 197 Speed. The remaining EVs optimizes Cyclohm’s physical defense.</p>

<p>Defensively, Bronzong is Cyclohm's best partner due to its resistances to Dragon-, Ground- (being immune to it), and Ice-type attacks, its ability to set up Stealth Rock and dual screens, and its ability to counter Mamoswine, one of Cyclohm's biggest threats. Cresselia also performs adequately in this department and can also become an effective switch-in to Flygon and Salamence, two Pokemon that immediately threaten Cyclohm upon switching in. RestTalk Gyarados makes a decent counter to Mamoswine and can take on Dragon Dance and Choice Band versions of Salamence as long as it is carrying Stone Edge or Avalanche. Scizor is an excellent answer towards Latias, being able to switch into its STAB attacks aimed at Cyclohm and threatening it at the same time with Bullet Punch or Pursuit. It’s also capable of threatening Mamoswine, falling under a OHKO with Bullet Punch. Skarmory laughs at Ground- and Dragon-type attacks, and has the added advantage of setting up multiple layers of Spikes, which can be very beneficial for your team.</p>

<p>This set aims to take advantage of Cyclohm’s natural bulk, decent 80 base Speed, and most importantly, its excellent base 112 Special Attack. This set can rip a huge hole in any wall not named Blissey with its raw power. Cyclohm’s main attack choice is Draco Meteor, which is pound for pound more powerful than a SpecsMence Draco Meteor. It’s insane power allows it to tear through walls like Celebi and Swampert, and penetrates other frail sweepers without question. Here are some calculations against common switch-ins towards Cyclohm.</p>

<p>In addition to the sheer power of Draco Meteor, what sets Cyclohm apart from other Dragon-types is STAB Thunderbolt. It obliterates the usual switch-ins to Dragon-types, namely bulky Water-types such as Suicune, Vaporeon, and Empoleon. It also provides fantastic coverage, hitting everything bar Magnezone for neutral damage in the OU metagame. Surf and Flamethrower provide neutrality and specific type coverage on this set respectively, which is essential on a good Choice item set. Surf hits Ground- and Rock-type switch-ins for super-effective damage, specifically Tyranitar and Heatran. Flamethrower puts the hurt in Steel-types who dare to switch in expecting a Draco Meteor, scorching Metagross, Jirachi, and Bronzong.</p>

<p>The EVs allow Cyclohm to tie at worst with Jolly Mamoswine, one of its biggest threats. With that being said, Cyclohm can safely outrun Adamant Mamoswine and even outpaces Adamant Gyarados before a Dragon Dance. If you wish, you can run a bulkier spread with a Modest nature, however, this is not recommended as you won’t be gaining any relevant 2HKOs.</p>

<p>Specs Cyclohm should be paired at all times with Pokemon that cover its weaknesses; namely those Pokemon able to get around the likes of Snorlax and Blissey while being able to sponge Ground-, Ice-, and Dragon-type attacks. Bronzong is unable to beat Blissey or Snorlax without Explosion, however, it easily walls threats such as Mamoswine, in addition to being able to set up Stealth Rock and dual screens. Cresselia can also perform the same role, while also shutting down Flygon, Salamence, and non-CM Latias, which are all large threats to Cyclohm once they switch in. Scizor, Metagross, and Jirachi are great answers for a Pokemon that resists Ice- and Dragon-type attacks while maintaining the ability to defeat Snorlax and Blissey. A defensive Machamp may not resist Dragon- and Ground-type attacks, but it is able to recover any damage taken with Rest, and absolutely destroys all of Cyclohm’s main checks.</p>

[Team Options]

<p>There are two very distinctive ways to play Cyclohm and each method requires different team members to suit Cyclohm's needs. The first way to play Cyclohm is defensively, as a physical tank. When using Cyclohm defensively, it is best to use Pokemon that compliment and cover Cyclohm's type strengths and weaknesses instead of focusing on Pokemon that weaken Cyclohm's counters. Bronzong is the best choice to fill such a roll due to its high overall defenses and resistance or immunity to all of Cyclohm's weaknesses to Ground-, Ice-, and Dragon-type attacks. Bronzong can also handle Mamoswine, Latias, Flygon, and to a certain extent, Salamence. All of the aforementioned Pokemon threaten Cyclohm with their powerful STAB attacks, but Bronzong is capable of switching into them with impunity and threatening them at the same time with Gyro Ball. Cresselia is another Pokemon that is capable of handling them as long as it invests heavily in its defenses and runs a set with Rest, Sleep Talk, and Ice Beam. ResTalk Gyarados is immune to Ground-type attacks and takes neutral damage from Dragon- and Ice-type attacks. With an Impish nature and max HP and Defense, Gyarados is capable of weathering assaults from Mamoswine, Flygon, and Salamence; however, you should be extremely wary of Draco Meteor from the latter. Bulky Steel-types such as Jirachi, Metagross, and Scizor pair extremely well with Cyclohm due to their resistances to Cyclohm's weaknesses. Scizor and Metagross can Pursuit or Bullet Punch Latias, Mamoswine, Salamence, and Latias, while Jirachi can flinch all three to death with Iron Head. Be sure to note that Metagross and Jirachi share a Ground weakness with Cyclohm, so it is not a very good idea to switch directly from Cyclohm to one of these Pokemon when faced with a foe commonly known to carry Earthquake. Another excellent teammate is Skarmory, as its typing and bulk allows it to shrug off Dragon-, Ground-, and weak physical Ice-type attacks. It can also set up Spikes to further weaken the Pokemon Cyclohm is up against.</p>

<p>The second way to play Cyclohm, of course, is offensively. This can be accomplished by using either the Choice Specs or Life Orb sets. Both sets rely strongly on hit-and-run tactics. With that being said, it is strongly advised that you pair Cyclohm with a Pokemon that is able to weaken or eliminate Cyclohm's counters. Scizor can easily dispose of Latias and Blissey, two of Cyclohm's biggest counters through a combination of U-turn, Bullet Punch, and Superpower. However, Scizor should be wary of Choice Specs Surf or Thunderbolt from Latias or Flamethrower from Blissey. Calm Mind Jirachi or Suicune with 101 HP Substitutes also work well due to their ability to set up in the face of Blissey. With Blissey out of the picture, Cyclohm can more easily make quick work of its foes by launching powerful, boosted Draco Meteors. Empoleon can come in against Choiced Dragon-type attacks from Latias or Salamence with its decent defense stats and can set up a sweep with its ever so popular Agility SubPetaya set. Scarf Heatran resists Dragon- and Ice-type moves and can lure Blissey in to play before taking it out of the game with Explosion. Lucario can also perform adequately as a partner due to its resistances to Ice- and Dragon-type attacks, allowing it to set up a Swords Dance and attempt to wreak havoc. Machamp can take out Blissey and Tyranitar with DynamicPunch and Latias with Payback, and can recover off any damage taken with Rest. Life Orb Metagross can also eliminate Latias, Blissey, and Tyranitar, and it works great in tandem with Cyclohm, as they both can destroy each other’s counters. Stealth Rock and Spikes are obviously recommended for use alongside Cyclohm due to their ability to turn 2HKOs into OHKOs. Forretress, Skarmory, and Bronzong are excellent users of Stealth Rock, and the former two can set up Spikes as well.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Cyclohm’s secondary ability, Static, can be used if you want added chances to paralyze physical attackers instead of relying on Discharge or Thunderbolt. It is particularly useful for punishing Pokemon that tend to U-turn early and use more powerful attacks later, neutering U-turners (commonly seen holding Choice Scarf) for the rest of the match unless the opponent has a Cleric.</p>

<p>Cyclohm has a multitude of viable support options that normally will not find their way onto a standard set due to "four moveslot syndrome". Cyclohm can Roar opponents away repeatedly at low cost utilizing its bulk, resistances, and reliable recovery. Haze can also remove opponent stat boosts, making the opponent’s set-up sweepers less effective.</p>

<p>Taunt allows Cyclohm to stop slower set-up Pokemon before they can get too dangerous, such as CursePert. Yawn can also be used as a method of psuedo-stat-up prevention. Instead of using Discharge to induce paralysis, Thunder Wave and Stun Spore can be used to allow Cyclohm to paralyze incoming foes practically every time. Thunder Wave has perfect accuracy, but Stun Spore can paralyze Ground-types, something Thunder Wave will never boast. Trick Room and Gravity are rarer field effects, but Cyclohm’s fantastic overall bulk and recovery moves make it a prime candidate to set them up. Gravity in particular is handy due to the fact that Draco Meteor, Hydro Pump, and Thunder will never miss. Block can keep ineffectual opponents in on Cyclohm, but Cyclohm forces so many switches you often end up trapping a Pokemon that Cyclohm hates to be up against. Knock Off can get rid of the opponent’s pesky Choice items and Life Orbs, and can also get rid of Leftovers from the likes of Blissey and Snorlax.</p>

<p>Light Screen can cover Cyclohm's weaker Special Defense, and Safeguard can prevent Cyclohm, and its teammates, from being hit by status for several turns.</p>

<p>Curse provides a means to boost Cyclohm's already impressive Defense, but usually the speed drop isn't worth it. Mixed sets with Curse are clunky to use, but not impossible. Dragon Dance's +1 Speed can be used to get the jump on many of Cyclohm's counters, but the +1 Attack is difficult to utilize effectively, as Volt Tackle, Outrage, and Earthquake still don't deal enough damage to significant targets.</p>

<p>Rain Dance is notable for boosting both Thunder and Hydro Pump's usefulness, while Sunny Day and Flamethrower makes life much more difficult for Steel- and Grass-types that switch into Cyclohm’s Dragon and Electric STABs respectively.</p>

<p>Vacuum Wave can be used if you need a last-ditch priority attack with decent power, especially against SD Lucario. Overheat can be used over Flamethrower, but cannot be used in conjunction with Hydro Pump on the standard sets due to move illegality issues. Charge Beam is an effective means of boosting Cyclohm's Special Attack while maintaining the defensive characteristics Cyclohm uses, allowing it to sweep teams under the right conditions.</p>

[EVs]

<p>As mentioned in the comments for the Physical Tank set, 108 Special Attack EVs allow Cyclohm to 2HKO max HP Metagross with Flamethrower. The 8 Speed EVs give Cyclohm enough speed to outpace and OHKO ResTalk Gyarados before it has the chance to move. The remaining EVs maximize physical defense while maintaining enough HP to take resisted special hits, such as Infernape's Fire Blast and Rotom-A's Thunderbolt.</p>

<p>On the Choice Specs and Life Orb sets, max Special Attack is used in order to guarantee 2HKOs on Tyranitar with Surf and Hydro Pump respectively. Max Speed allows Cyclohm to tie with Adamant Mamoswine but outrun Adamant Lucario and can proceed to KO with the appropriate attack. Cyclohm also outpaces all non-Scarfed Heatran and can OHKO with either Surf on the Choice Specs set or Hydro Pump on the Life Orb set if Heatran has taken prior damage.</p>

<p>It is possible, although not highly recommended, to use a much bulkier Life Orb or Specs EV spread. Simply run max Special Attack and enough Speed EVs to outrun standard Agility Metagross. The remaining EVs should be funneled into HP or one of Cyclohm's defenses, whichever you prefer.</p>

[CAP Metagame]

<p>Cyclohm is very unique from the rest of the CAP Pokemon, as in it takes hits better on the physical side, but fires off attacks from its special side. It’s not too easy for it to combat against every CAP Pokemon, though. Syclant, Fidgit, Stratagem, and opposing Cyclohm are always going to be tough competitors to take down. Syclant’s STAB Ice Beam will destroy Cyclohm due to its weaker Special Defense, Fidgit can easily Encore a predicted Thunderbolt or Slack Off and start spilling out entry hazards, Stratagem can hit it hard with a powerful Earth Power, and other Cyclohm will smack it hard with their own STAB Dragon-type attacks. However, Cyclohm can easily switch right into Revenankh, Pyroak, Arghonaut, and Kitsunoh. With all of them being physically offensive (Pyroak being mixed), each of them will have a very hard time to eliminate Cyclohm. Revenankh will be hit repeatedly by powerful Thunderbolt or Draco Meteor attacks, meaning it can’t safely use Bulk Up at all. Cyclohm is resistant to both of Pyroak’s STAB attacks, meaning Cyclohm can switch right into Pyroak with impunity and nail it with one of its Dragon-type attacks. Arghonaut is deathly afraid of being faced with Cyclohm, due to the fact that it can’t threaten it at all and will be KOed by Thunderbolt. Lastly, Cyclohm’s excellent defensive bulk allows it to take on Kitsunoh with ease, switching into its STAB attacks and threatening it with Flamethrower.</p>

<p>Cyclohm’s great typing and stat spread is what really makes it shine throughout the OU metagame, not to mention its great ability, Shield Dust. With many of the common OU Pokemon carrying moves that have a secondary effect, they will no longer become a nuisance. Jirachi and Machamp are two perfect examples of this, as they each use hax-related moves to take down their opponent; Jirachi spamming Iron Head or Zen Headbutt, and Machamp firing off DynamicPunch. This also means it will never have to worry about being burnt by Flamethrower from Heatran, getting a Defense drop from Tyranitar’s Crunch, or even being paralyzed from Snorlax’s Body Slam. Besides that, Cyclohm’s typing and high powered attacks makes it one of the hardest Pokemon to safely switch in against, since one wrong move on your opponent’s part can easily cost their Pokemon’s life.</p>

[Opinion]

<p>Due to Cyclohm's base 112 Special Attack, it hits like a truck. With offensive options that boast a high base power, such as Hydro Pump, Draco Meteor, and Thunderbolt, it is able to put a major dent into the majority of the OU metagame. Even Pokemon that resist Draco Meteor, such as Scizor, will take a huge chunk of damage from a Specs Draco Meteor; nearly 65% of its health.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Cyclohm performs exceptionally well as a tank due to its high defensive stats and numerous resistances. Shield Dust and Slack Off only further Cyclohm's ability to take hits from the likes of Jirachi (a Pokemon that relies on flinch the flinch chance from Iron Head or Zen Headbutt to make a mark on the opponent), Metagross, and Scizor.</p>

<p>However, Cyclohm is not all sunshine and rainbows (just look at the thing). Cyclohm sports three weaknesses to some of the game's most common attacking types: Ground, Ice, and Dragon. Due to this, it is sometimes difficult to effectively fit Cyclohm into a team or switch it into play. Cyclohm also takes full damage from Spikes, Toxic Spikes, and Stealth Rock, further limiting its ability to wall certain threats such as U-turn Scizor. It also doesn't help that Tyranitar, one of the most common Pokemon in the game, can switch into defensive sets with impunity due to sandstorm's Special Defense boost and immediately threaten a KO with Choice Banded Earthquake or set up a sweep with Dragon Dance. Like most Pokemon, Cyclohm requires some support from its teammates to be used to its fullest potential.</p>

[Counters]

<p>Given Cyclohm's powerful attacks, incredible type coverage, and respectable 112 base Special Attack, very little can afford to keep coming in on the more offensive sets. Blissey can sponge up Cyclohm's attacks indefinitely, and can keep Cyclohm on a timer with Toxic. Snorlax can sponge up a few hits (though it will require heavy Special Defense investment to avoid being 2HKO'd by a LO Draco Meteor) and hit back with Earthquake. Swampert can also take hits from Cyclohm not named Draco Meteor and gets STAB on its Earthquake.</p>

<p>Mamoswine can come in on a predicted Thunderbolt and OHKO all but the bulkiest Cyclohm with STAB Earthquake. Dugtrio can trap Cyclohm and hit it with Earthquake as well, though Cyclohm's bulk usually necessitates a little weakening before Dugtrio can safely knock it out. A Specially Defensive Tyranitar can usually afford to take a hit from Cyclohm and fight back with Earthquake, though it should be wary of Hydro Pump or Surf.</p>

<p>Latias can absorb non-Dragon moves and hit Cyclohm on its weaker side with a Dragon-type attack of its own. Various other Pokemon with a strong super effective move can revenge kill Cyclohm, such as Salamence, Starmie, or Heatran, but should be careful to ensure that Cyclohm is within KO range before attempting to take it out.</p>

Cyclohm’s ability, Shield Dust, is what really makes it shine throughout the OU metagame.

Click to expand...

i don't really agree with this to such an extent. yeah, it's a nice enough ability, but really it's the typing and stats that make cyclohm a good pokemon. i think it could do the sweeping sets just or almost as well with some other ability, and this could be stressed a little less.

fat opinion said:

Even Pokemon that resist Draco Meteor, such as Scizor, will take a huge chunk of damage from a Specs Draco Meteor: nearly 65%.

<p>With an amazing movepool and a ['base'] Special Attack stat of 112, Cyclohm's role as an offensive threat in today's metagame is not dealt with easily. By using this set, not many OU Pokemon will be able to easily switch into Cyclohm without being hit hard. With Life Orb, Cyclohm further increases its offensive potential, and with its excellent overall bulk and recovery abilities, it won’t mind the 10% recoil Life Orb provides. Not only that, but Cyclohm's typing also gives this set much more of a boost, as there are numerous resistances to switch into and shrug off, while instantly giving your opponent a scare with Cyclohm’s fantastic dual STAB combo in Draco Meteor and Thunderbolt that no OU Pokemon (aside from Magnezone) is capable of resisting.</p>

<p>Hydro Pump’s high power and great type coverage makes it an excellent attack to use in tandem with Cyclohm’s STAB attacks, as it’s strong enough to 2HKO max HP Tyranitar, who would otherwise pose a threat due to its['it's'] high Special Defense. Flamethrower deals more damage to Steel-types like Jirachi and Metagross than Thunderbolt would do, and it’s Cyclohm's most reliable option against Celebi. Although Hydro Pump is the preferred option in this set, both Flamethrower and Hydro Pump have their merits. Slack Off is used to give this set a longer lasting presence in the game, allowing it to constantly switch in, hit a few pokemon quite hard, and switch out. Cyclohm is essentially a hit-and-run type of Pokemon, which is why Draco Meteor is much preferred over Dragon Pulse.</p>

<p>Timid Cyclohm can outrun everything below 284 Speed, including Adamant Lucario, the standard Dragon Dance Kingdra, and Heatran. This also allows Cyclohm to speed tie with Mamoswine as well as other base 80 Speed Pokemon who would usually run max Speed.</p>

<p>When using Cyclohm, Pokemon that do exceptionally well in weakening foes and crippling the opponent will make its job much easier. Scizor, in particular, can switch into many of Cyclohm's counters such as Blissey and Latias who would hope to either kill or wall Cyclohm. Scizor can also scout and significantly weaken the opposing team with U-turn when paired with Stealth Rock. Likewise, Scizor can lure in Fire-type attacks coming from the likes of Heatran, allowing Cyclohm to take the hit and recover off the damage with Slack Off. Jirachi is also a good Pokemon to pair Cyclohm with, as it can paralyze foes with Body Slam or Thunder Wave while taking Ice- and Dragon-type attacks aimed at Cyclohm. Empoleon or Metagross can come in on Choice Salamence or Latias’ Dragon-type attacks aimed at Cyclohm and set up a sweep with their popular Agility sets. Gyarados is immune to Ground-type attacks and can take out the special walls that normally impede Cyclohm through a combination of Waterfall, Dragon Dance, and Ice Fang. Close Combat + U-turn Infernape also does an excellent job of weakening or KOing Latias and Blissey while providing another offensive presence on your team. Like Empoleon and Metagross, Lucario can come in on Choiced Ice- or Dragon-type attacks, such as Scarf Latias' Dragon Pulse, and threaten a sweep with Swords Dance.</p>[Most of the partners you mentioned fail to Ground, a pretty common move type. Also, I believe Gyarados is the best partner. Takes Ground attacks, and it has decent Special Defense to take special Ice and Dragon attacks aswell as Intimidate for Physical ones.]

<p>With impressive HP and Defense, amazing typing, Slack Off, and Shield Dust, Cyclohm is more than capable of sponging hits from many of the game's top threats. Cyclohm can take several hits from Scizor, Metagross, Jirachi, and Gyarados, and retaliate with an attack launched from a high base 112 Special Attack. For example, Choice Band Scizor can only do 31.34% - 36.82% to Cyclohm with U-turn. Jirachi cannot rely on Zen Headbutt or Iron Head to flinch Cyclohm due to Cyclohm's ability, Shield Dust, which prevents any secondary effects such as Flamethrower's 10% burn chance or Iron Head's 30% flinch chance from activating. Unlike Zapdos, Cyclohm is not Stealth Rock weak and can therefore switch in more easily against Scizor, Metagross, and Jirachi. Cyclohm can normally switch in against Metagross with impunity; however, it must be careful when faced with Life Orb or Choice Band Metagross using Earthquake, as it will definitely be harmful. It should also be noted that although a Jolly Life Orb Lucario only has a 2% chance of OHKOing Cyclohm with a +2 Close Combat, Adamant versions will always OHKO. Besides that, Cyclohm is capable of always OHKOing Lucario with Flamethrower after it drops its defenses with Close Combat. It also makes a good switch-in against Infernape due to Cyclohm's high Defense and resistance to Grass Knot and Fire Blast, though Cyclohm must be wary of Hidden Power Ice.</p>

<p>Due to Cyclohm's great Special Attack, it can more easily handle the previously mentioned Pokemon without relying on set damage moves like Seismic Toss or Night Shade. Flamethrower allows Cyclohm to dispose of Scizor, Metagross, and Jirachi and is Cyclohm's strongest option against Celebi and Bronzong. Dragon Pulse is commonly used to hit switch-ins such as Tyranitar, Mamoswine, and Flygon for at least neutral damage, the latter being hit super effectivey. Discharge is the recommended Electric-type STAB option due to its 30% paralysis chance, which can be very helpful as it will help Cyclohm outpace more threats once they have been paralyzed. The power drop is largely insignificant due to the fact that Cyclohm is being used defensively, meaning it doesn’t need much offensive power.</p>

<p>With 108 SpA EVs, Cyclohm 2HKOes max HP Metagross 100% of the time with Flamethrower. Similarly, those Jirachi that do not invest heavily in HP are 2HKOed. 8 Spe EVs allow Cyclohm to outrun the standard ResTalk Gyarados who sit at 197 Speed. The remaining EVs optimizes Cyclohm’s physical defense.</p>

<p>Defensively, Bronzong is Cyclohm's best partner due to its resistances to Dragon-, Ground- (being immune to it), and Ice-type attacks, its ability to set up Stealth Rock and dual screens, and its ability to counter Mamoswine, one of Cyclohm's biggest threats. Cresselia also performs adequately in this department and can also become an effective switch-in to Flygon and Salamence, two Pokemon that immediately threaten Cyclohm upon switching in. ResTalk Gyarados makes a decent counter to Mamoswine and can take on Dragon Dance and Choice Band versions of Salamence as long as it is carrying Stone Edge or Avalanche. Scizor is an excellent answer towards Latias, being able to switch into its STAB attacks aimed at Cyclohm and threatening it at the same time with Bullet Punch or Pursuit. It’s also capable of threatening Mamoswine, falling under a OHKO with Bullet Punch. Skarmory laughs at Ground- and Dragon-type attacks, making it an acceptable switch-in[I believe a MixMamo's Blizzard 2HKOes.] to Mamoswine as well. Skarmory also has the added advantage of setting up multiple layers of Spikes, which can be very beneficial for your team.</p>

<p>This set aims to take advantage of Cyclohm’s natural bulk, decent 80 base Speed, and most importantly, its excellent base 112 Special Attack. This set can rip a huge hole in any wall not named Blissey with its raw power. Cyclohm’s main attack choice is Draco Meteor, which is pound for pound more powerful than a SpecsMence Draco Meteor. It’s insane power allows it to tear through walls like Celebi and Swampert, and penetrates other frail sweepers without question. Here are some calculations against common switch-ins towards Cyclohm.</p>

<p>In addition to the sheer power of Draco Meteor, what sets Cyclohm apart from other Dragon-types is STAB Thunderbolt. It obliterates the usual switch-ins to Dragon-types, namely bulky Water-types such as Suicune, Vaporeon, and Empoleon. It also provides fantastic coverage, hitting everything bar Magnezone for neutral damage in the OU metagame. Surf and Flamethrower provide neutrality and specific type coverage on this set respectively, which is essential on a good Choice item set. Surf hits Ground- and Rock-type switch-ins for super-effective damage, specifically Tyranitar and Heatran. Flamethrower puts the hurt in Steel-types who dare to switch in expecting a Draco Meteor, scorching Metagross, Jirachi, and Bronzong.</p>

<p>The EVs allow Cyclohm to tie at worst with Jolly Mamoswine, one of its biggest threats. With that being said, Cyclohm can safely outrun Adamant Mamoswine and even outpaces Adamant Gyarados before a Dragon Dance. If you wish, you can run a bulkier spread with a Modest nature, however, this is not recommended as you won’t be gaining any relevant 2HKOs.</p>

[Forgot the beginning marks ('<p>') .]Specs Cyclohm should be paired at all times with Pokemon that cover its weaknesses; namely those Pokemon able to get around the likes of Snorlax and Blissey while being able to sponge Ground-, Ice-, and Dragon-type attacks. Bronzong is unable to beat Blissey or Snorlax without Explosion, however, it easily walls threats such as Mamoswine, in addition to being able to set up Stealth Rock and dual screens. Cresselia can also perform the same role, while also shutting down Flygon, Salamence, and non-CM Latias, which are all large threats to Cyclohm once they switch in. Scizor, Metagross, and Jirachi are great answers for a Pokemon that resists Ice- and Dragon-type attacks while maintaining the ability to defeat Snorlax and Blissey. A defensive Machamp may not resist Dragon- and Ground-type attacks, but it is able to recover any damage taken with Rest, and absolutely destroys all of Cyclohm’s main checks.</p>

[Team Options]

<p>There are two very distinctive ways to play Cyclohm and each method requires different team members to suit Cyclohm's needs. The first way to play Cyclohm is defensively, as a physical tank. When using Cyclohm defensively, it is best to use Pokemon that compliment and cover Cyclohm's type strengths and weaknesses instead of focusing on Pokemon that weaken Cyclohm's counters. Bronzong is the best choice to fill such a roll due to its high overall defenses and resistance or immunity to all of Cyclohm's weaknesses to Ground-, Ice-, and Dragon-type attacks. Bronzong can also handle Mamoswine, Latias, Flygon, and to a certain extent, Salamence. All of the aforementioned Pokemon threaten Cyclohm with their powerful STAB attacks, but Bronzong is capable of switching into them with impunity and threatening them at the same time with Gyro Ball. Cresselia is another Pokemon that is capable of handling them as long as it invests heavily in its defenses and runs a set with Rest, Sleep Talk, and Ice Beam. ResTalk Gyarados is immune to Ground-type attacks and takes neutral damage from Dragon- and Ice-type attacks. With an Impish nature and max HP and Defense, Gyarados is capable of weathering assaults from Mamoswine, Flygon, and Salamence; however, you should be extremely wary of Draco Meteor from the latter. Bulky Steel-types such as Jirachi, Metagross, and Scizor pair extremely well with Cyclohm due to their resistances to Cyclohm's weaknesses. Scizor and Metagross can Pursuit or Bullet Punch Latias, Mamoswine, Salamence, and Latias, while Jirachi can flinch all three to death with Iron Head. Be sure to note that Metagross and Jirachi share a Ground weakness with Cyclohm, so it is not a very good idea to switch directly from Cyclohm to one of these Pokemon when faced with a foe commonly known to carry Earthquake. Another excellent teammate is Skarmory, as its typing and bulk allows it to shrug off Dragon-, Ground-, and weak physical Ice-type attacks. It can also set up Spikes to further weaken the Pokemon Cyclohm is up against.</p>

<p>The second way to play Cyclohm, of course, is offensively. This can be accomplished by using either the Choice Specs or Life Orb sets. Both sets rely strongly on hit-and-run tactics. With that being said, it is strongly advised that you pair Cyclohm with a Pokemon that is able to weaken or eliminate Cyclohm's counters. Scizor can easily dispose of Latias and Blissey, two of Cyclohm's biggest counters through a combination of U-turn, Bullet Punch, and Superpower. However, Scizor should be wary of Choice Specs Surf or Thunderbolt from Latias or Flamethrower from Blissey. Calm Mind Jirachi or Suicune with 101 HP Substitutes also work well due to their ability to set up in the face of Blissey. With Blissey out of the picture, Cyclohm can more easily make quick work of its foes by launching powerful, boosted Draco Meteors. Empoleon can come in against Choiced Dragon-type attacks from Latias or Salamence with its decent defense stats and can set up a sweep with its ever so popular Agility SubPetaya set. Scarf Heatran resists Dragon- and Ice-type moves and can lure Blissey in to play before taking it out of the game with Explosion. Lucario can also perform adequately as a partner due to its resistances to Ice- and Dragon-type attacks, allowing it to set up a Swords Dance and attempt to wreak havoc. Machamp can take out Blissey and Tyranitar with DynamicPunch and Latias with Payback, and can recover off any damage taken with Rest. Life Orb Metagross can also eliminate Latias, Blissey, and Tyranitar, and it works great in tandem with Cyclohm, as they both can destroy each other’s counters. Stealth Rock and Spikes are obviously recommended for use alongside Cyclohm due to their ability to turn 2HKOs into OHKOs. Forretress, Skarmory, and Bronzong are excellent users of Stealth Rock, and the former two can set up Spikes as well.</p>

[Other Options]

<p>Cyclohm’s secondary ability, Static, can be used if you want added chances to paralyze physical attackers instead of relying on Discharge or Thunderbolt. It is particularly useful for punishing Pokemon that tend to U-turn early and use more powerful attacks later, neutering U-turners (commonly seen holding Choice Scarf) for the rest of the match unless the opponent has a Cleric.</p>

<p>Cyclohm has a multitude of viable support options that normally will not find their way onto a standard set due to "four moveslot syndrome". Cyclohm can Roar opponents away repeatedly at low cost utilizing its bulk, resistances, and reliable recovery. Haze can also remove opponent stat boosts, making the opponent’s set-up sweepers less effective.</p>

<p>Taunt allows Cyclohm to stop slower set-up Pokemon before they can get too dangerous, such as CursePert[CursepErt commonly carry Avalanche/EarthQuake I believe.]. Yawn can also be used as a method of psuedo-stat-up prevention. Instead of using Discharge to induce paralysis, Thunder Wave and Stun Spore can be used to allow Cyclohm to paralyze incoming foes practically every time. Thunder Wave has perfect accuracy, but Stun Spore can paralyze Ground-types, something Thunder Wave will never boast. Trick Room and Gravity are rarer field effects, but Cyclohm’s fantastic overall bulk and recovery moves make it a prime candidate to set them up. Gravity in particular is handy due to the fact that Draco Meteor, Hydro Pump, and Thunder will never miss. Block can keep ineffectual opponents in on Cyclohm, but Cyclohm forces so many switches you often end up trapping a Pokemon that Cyclohm hates to be up against. Knock Off can get rid of the opponent’s pesky Choice items and Life Orbs, and can also get rid of Leftovers from the likes of Blissey and Snorlax.</p>

<p>Light Screen can cover Cyclohm's weaker Special Defense, and Safeguard can prevent Cyclohm, and its teammates, from being hit by status for several turns.</p>

<p>Curse provides a means to boost Cyclohm's already impressive Defense, but usually the speed drop isn't worth it. Mixed sets with Curse are clunky to use, but not impossible. Dragon Dance's +1 Speed can be used to get the jump on many of Cyclohm's counters, but the +1 Attack is difficult to utilize effectively, as Volt Tackle, Outrage, and Earthquake still don't deal enough damage to significant targets.</p>

<p>Rain Dance is notable for boosting both Thunder and Hydro Pump's usefulness, while Sunny Day and Flamethrower makes life much more difficult for Steel- and Grass-types that switch into Cyclohm’s Dragon and Electric STABs respectively.</p>

<p>Vacuum Wave can be used if you need a last-ditch priority attack with decent power, especially against SD Lucario. Overheat can be used over Flamethrower, but cannot be used in conjunction with Hydro Pump on the standard sets due to move illegality issues. Charge Beam is an effective means of boosting Cyclohm's Special Attack while maintaining the defensive characteristics Cyclohm uses, allowing it to sweep teams under the right conditions.</p>

[EVs]

<p>As mentioned in the comments for the Physical Tank set, 108 Special Attack EVs allow Cyclohm to 2HKO max HP Metagross with Flamethrower. The 8 Speed EVs give Cyclohm enough speed to outpace and OHKO ResTalk Gyarados before it has the chance to move. The remaining EVs maximize physical defense while maintaining enough HP to take resisted special hits, such as Infernape's Fire Blast and Rotom-A's Thunderbolt.</p>

<p>On the Choice Specs and Life Orb sets, max Special Attack is used in order to guarantee 2HKOs on Tyranitar with Surf and Hydro Pump respectively. Max Speed allows Cyclohm to tie with Adamant Mamoswine but outrun Adamant Lucario and can proceed to KO with the appropriate attack. Cyclohm also outpaces all non-Scarfed Heatran and can OHKO with either Surf on the Choice Specs set or Hydro Pump on the Life Orb set if Heatran has taken prior damage.</p>

<p>It is possible, although not highly recommended, to use a much bulkier Life Orb or Specs EV spread. Simply run max Special Attack and enough Speed EVs to outrun standard Agility Metagross. The remaining EVs should be funneled into HP or one of Cyclohm's defenses, whichever you prefer.</p>

[CAP Metagame]

<p>Cyclohm is very unique from the rest of the CAP Pokemon, as in it takes hits better on the physical side, but fires off attacks from its special side. It’s not too easy for it to combat against every CAP Pokemon, though. Syclant, Fidgit, Stratagem, and opposing Cyclohm are always going to be tough competitors to take down. Syclant’s STAB Ice Beam will destroy Cyclohm due to its weaker Special Defense, Fidgit can easily Encore a predicted Thunderbolt or Slack Off and start spilling out entry hazards, Stratagem can hit it hard with a powerful Earth Power, and other Cyclohm will smack it hard with their own STAB Dragon-type attacks. However, Cyclohm can easily switch right into Revenankh, Pyroak[Pyroak obtained Earth Power, so fix this.], Arghonaut, and Kitsunoh[I believe many Kitsunohs run Earth Quake.]. With all of them being physically offensive (Pyroak being mixed), each of them will have a very hard time to eliminate Cyclohm. Revenankh will be hit repeatedly by powerful Thunderbolt or Draco Meteor attacks, meaning it can’t safely use Bulk Up at all. Cyclohm is resistant to both of Pyroak’s STAB attacks, meaning Cyclohm can switch right into Pyroak with impunity and nail it with one of its Dragon-type attacks. Arghonaut is deathly afraid of being faced with Cyclohm, due to the fact that it can’t threaten it at all and will be KOed by Thunderbolt. Lastly, Cyclohm’s excellent defensive bulk allows it to take on Kitsunoh with ease, switching into its STAB attacks and threatening it with Flamethrower.</p>

<p>Cyclohm’s ability, Shield Dust, is what really makes it shine throughout the OU metagame[AS UD mentioned, you're making the ability to much of a reason. Most people use Cyclohm because it is a bulky tank with great typing and nice stats. It's ability is only a plus.], not to mention its great typing and stat spread as well. With many of the common OU Pokemon carrying moves that have a secondary effect, they will no longer become a nuisance. Jirachi and Machamp are two perfect examples of this, as they each use hax-related moves to take down their opponent; Jirachi spamming Iron Head or Zen Headbutt, and Machamp firing off DynamicPunch. This also means it will never have to worry about being burnt by Flamethrower from Heatran, getting a Defense drop from Tyranitar’s Crunch, or even being paralyzed from Snorlax’s Body Slam. Besides that, Cyclohm’s typing and high powered attacks makes it one of the hardest Pokemon to safely switch in against, since one wrong move on your opponent’s part can easily cost their Pokemon’s life.</p>

[Opinion]

<p>Due to Cyclohm's base 112 Special Attack, it hits like a truck. With offensive options that boast a high base power, such as Hydro Pump, Draco Meteor, and Thunderbolt, it is able to put a major dent into the majority of the OU metagame. Even Pokemon that resist Draco Meteor, such as Scizor, will take a huge chunk of damage from a Specs Draco Meteor; nearly 65%['of it's health' is the best fix I could think of. This needs to be reworded.].</p>

<p>On the other hand, Cyclohm performs exceptionally well as a tank due to its high defensive stats and numerous resistances. Shield Dust and Slack Off only further Cyclohm's ability to take hits from the likes of Jirachi (a Pokemon that relies on flinch the flinch chance from Iron Head or Zen Headbutt to make a mark on the opponent), Metagross, and Scizor.</p>

<p>However, Cyclohm is not all sunshine and rainbows (just look at the thing). Cyclohm sports three weaknesses to some of the game's most common attacking types: Ground, Ice, and Dragon. Due to this, it is sometimes difficult to effectively fit Cyclohm into a team or switch it into play. Cyclohm also takes full damage from Spikes, Toxic Spikes, and Stealth Rock, further limiting its ability to wall certain threats such as U-turn Scizor. It also doesn't help that Tyranitar, one of the most common Pokemon in the game, can switch into defensive sets with impunity due to sandstorm's Special Defense boost and immediately threaten a KO with Choice Banded Earthquake or set up a sweep with Dragon Dance. Like most Pokemon, Cyclohm requires some support from its teammates to be used to its fullest potential.</p>

[Counters]

<p>Given Cyclohm's powerful attacks, incredible type coverage, and respectable 112 base Special Attack, very little can afford to keep coming in on the more offensive sets. Blissey can sponge up Cyclohm's attacks indefinitely, and can keep Cyclohm on a timer with Toxic. Snorlax can sponge up a few hits (though it will require heavy Special Defense investment to avoid being 2HKO'd by a LO Draco Meteor) and hit back with Earthquake. Swampert can also take hits from Cyclohm not named Draco Meteor and gets STAB on its Earthquake.</p>

<p>Mamoswine can come in on a predicted Thunderbolt and OHKO all but the bulkiest Cyclohm with STAB Earthquake. Dugtrio can trap Cyclohm and hit it with Earthquake as well, though Cyclohm's bulk usually necessitates a little weakening before Dugtrio can safely knock it out. A Specially Defensive Tyranitar can usually afford to take a hit from Cyclohm and fight back with Earthquake, though it should be wary of Hydro Pump or Surf.</p>

<p>Latias can absorb non-Dragon moves and hit Cyclohm on its weaker side with a Dragon-type attack of its own. Various other Pokemon with a strong super effective move can revenge kill Cyclohm, such as Salamence, Starmie, or Heatran, but should be careful to ensure that Cyclohm is within KO range before attempting to take it out.</p>